Pure Grit - with Paula McGrath

Paula McGrath
  • 4.9 (37)
  • MENTAL HEALTH
Pure Grit - with Paula McGrath

Grit means to have courage and show strength of character, passion and perseverance. Paula’s career in radio and television is where she discovered her natural ability to interview, bringing out the best in her guest with empathy warmth and humour. Paula interviews a diverse range of guests who have made it to the top of their chosen field. They chat about the journey, obstacles and surprising moments they faced on the way to the top.

  1. Hans Gustafsson’s Transformation: From Drug Dealer to Fitness Warrior – Part 2

    11 JAN

    Hans Gustafsson’s Transformation: From Drug Dealer to Fitness Warrior – Part 2

    In this gripping conclusion of Hans Gustafsson’s story, Part 2 dives into the raw, brutal reality of addiction recovery. Hans shares his experience going cold turkey in jail, enduring months of physical and mental torment. With no choice but to fight through the excruciating withdrawal symptoms, he recounts how writing, fitness, and sheer grit became his lifelines. Hans opens up about the long road to rebuilding his life—how it took 18 months to fully feel like himself again and why relapse prevention requires more than just willpower. He highlights the importance of having hobbies, adopting a fitness routine, and retraining the brain to embrace normality after years of chaos. His advice is invaluable for anyone struggling with addiction or supporting someone on the road to recovery. Through powerful anecdotes, Hans reveals how his lowest moments became a turning point, inspiring him to help others break free from the grip of addiction. This episode isn’t just about recovery—it’s about rediscovering life and finding purpose. Hans’ honesty, wisdom, and resilience make this a must-listen for anyone seeking hope and understanding. If you or someone you know needs help, contact Alcohol and Drug Support (1800 177 833) or seek professional guidance. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    41 min
  2. Jeanette Allom-Hill: From Trauma to Triumph – Building Lionhearted Women

    11 JAN

    Jeanette Allom-Hill: From Trauma to Triumph – Building Lionhearted Women

    Jeanette Allom-Hill’s life story is as powerful as it is inspiring. In this emotionally charged episode of Pure Grit, Jeanette opens up about her journey from a traumatic childhood to becoming a transformative leader. From surviving unimaginable personal tragedies to facing corporate bullying, Jeanette’s resilience and grit have driven her to create Lionhearted, a foundation dedicated to empowering women and fostering safe leadership. Jeanette recounts growing up in South Africa, losing everything, and starting a new life in Australia after a traumatic event forced her family to flee. She shares how these early experiences shaped her character and instilled in her a deep commitment to helping women find their strength and purpose. Through Lionhearted, she now leads programs aimed at supporting women facing workplace bullying, harassment, and trauma, while also guiding them to discover their unique brilliance. This episode isn’t just a story of hardship—it’s a story of hope, healing, and the power of lifting others. Jeanette’s mission is clear: build an army of women who stand shoulder to shoulder, ready to lead with courage, compassion, and authenticity. Don’t miss this raw, heartfelt conversation that will leave you inspired to find your inner strength. If you or someone you know needs support, reach out to Lionhearted or visit their website for more information. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    56 min
  3. Lindy Chamberlain-Creighton: Resilience Beyond Injustice – Her Journey Continues in Part 2

    21/12/2024

    Lindy Chamberlain-Creighton: Resilience Beyond Injustice – Her Journey Continues in Part 2

    Lindy Chamberlain-Creighton’s fight for justice didn’t end with a courtroom. In Part 2, she reveals how she survived prison, reclaimed her life, and inspired a nation. Don’t miss it. In Part 2 of Lindy Chamberlain-Creighton’s gripping story, we dive deeper into her extraordinary journey of resilience. After the tragic loss of her baby Azaria, Lindy faced years of wrongful imprisonment, intense public scrutiny, and unimaginable personal challenges. This episode of Pure Grit reveals the untold struggles and triumphs that defined her fight for justice. Lindy opens up about her time in Darwin Prison, her separation from her children, and the heartbreaking moments she could only experience from behind bars. She recounts the powerful support from unexpected allies and the unwavering faith that kept her moving forward. From her final exoneration in 2012 to the lessons she’s learned about humanity, forgiveness, and living with purpose, Lindy’s story is a testament to unyielding strength. With insights into the legal system, media bias, and her lasting legacy, this episode leaves listeners inspired and hopeful. Lindy shares life wisdom, the importance of courage and kindness, and her mantra for stepping out of the shadows and into the sunlight.   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    37 min
  4. Hanz Gustafsson’s Raw Journey Through Addiction: From the Depths of Ice to Redemption – Part 1

    21/12/2024

    Hanz Gustafsson’s Raw Journey Through Addiction: From the Depths of Ice to Redemption – Part 1

    Crystal meth doesn’t just steal lives; it rewires them. In Part 1 of this gripping series, Hanz Gustafsson reveals the brutal realities of addiction and how he began his journey back from the brink.   Hanz Gustafsson doesn’t hold back in this brutally honest first part of a two-episode series. Once caught in the destructive grip of ice (crystal methamphetamine), Hanz takes us deep into the world of addiction, revealing the peer pressure, spiraling dependencies, and devastating consequences that come with it. He shares his experience as a user and dealer, the moment he hit rock bottom, and the path that led him to prison, where his story took a life-changing turn. Hanz explains the addictive nature of ice, the mental toll it takes, and how it rewires the brain, creating a vicious cycle of dependence. His vivid storytelling gives a raw look at the highs, the paranoia, and the lasting damage that left him at the brink. This episode is a dedication to families and loved ones who’ve struggled to support someone facing addiction. Hanz’s incredible transformation reminds us that there is a way out. Stay tuned for Part 2, where he reveals how he broke free and rebuilt his life into one of health, purpose, and positivity. If you or someone you know needs help, support is available 24/7 through Alcohol and Drug Support (1800 177 833).   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    41 min
  5. Lindy Chamberlain-Creighton: A Dingo, A Nation Divided, and A Mother’s Fight for Justice – Part 1

    21/12/2024

    Lindy Chamberlain-Creighton: A Dingo, A Nation Divided, and A Mother’s Fight for Justice – Part 1

    “A dingo’s got my baby.” These words changed Lindy Chamberlain-Creighton’s life forever. In Part 1 of this gripping two-episode series, she opens up about the tragedy, the media storm, and the fight for justice. Don’t miss it. Lindy Chamberlain-Creighton’s story is one of Australia’s most infamous miscarriages of justice. In Part 1 of this two-episode series on Pure Grit, Lindy shares her harrowing experience as the target of one of the nation’s most publicised trials following the tragic loss of her 9-week-old baby, Azaria. Her statement, “A dingo’s got my baby,” divided a nation in 1980 and led to her wrongful conviction for Azaria’s murder. This raw and emotional conversation explores the days leading up to Azaria’s disappearance, the fateful camping trip at Uluru, and the extraordinary miscarriage of justice that followed. Lindy reflects on the unfathomable pain of being accused of her own child’s death and the subsequent media frenzy that painted her as a villain. Her resilience and determination to clear her name amidst widespread public scrutiny are a testament to her unbreakable spirit. This episode delves into Lindy’s early life, her family’s struggles during the trial, and her insights into the failures of the legal system. It’s a story of strength, injustice, and the unyielding fight for truth. Stay tuned for Part 2, where Lindy shares the details of her time in prison and how she ultimately fought to reclaim her freedom.   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    51 min
  6. Jamie Dunn and Agro: The Mischievous Duo Behind Australia’s Favourite Puppet

    21/12/2024

    Jamie Dunn and Agro: The Mischievous Duo Behind Australia’s Favourite Puppet

    Agro wasn’t just a puppet; he was chaos personified. Jamie Dunn spills on what made the cheeky character a TV legend, and why some stories are too wild for children’s television! Jamie Dunn and Agro, names synonymous with Australian TV and radio nostalgia. In this laugh-out-loud episode of Pure Grit, Jamie takes us on a trip down memory lane, sharing the wild, hilarious, and sometimes outrageous moments behind Agro’s antics. From iconic interviews with celebrities like Jason Donovan to the chaos of live TV and the infamous Agro showbags, Jamie reveals what made this puppet a household name. But there’s more to Jamie than Agro. He talks candidly about his journey from drummer to TV and radio star, balancing a legendary career with fatherhood, and finding new passions in life. Through it all, Jamie’s razor-sharp wit and cheeky charm shine as he and Agro deliver punchline after punchline. This episode is a love letter to the golden days of Aussie TV and the characters who shaped a generation’s laughter. Whether you grew up watching Agro’s Cartoon Connection or simply love hearing behind-the-scenes stories, this is an episode that promises to leave you grinning ear to ear.   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    43 min
  7. Dr Torna Pitman Reveals the Hidden Scars of Coercive Control - The Abuse You Can’t See

    21/12/2024

    Dr Torna Pitman Reveals the Hidden Scars of Coercive Control - The Abuse You Can’t See

    Coercive control is the abuse that leaves no bruises but breaks the spirit. Dr. Torna Pitman uncovers its hidden dangers and how to fight back in this must-hear episode. Dr. Torna Pitman is a leading expert on coercive control, an often invisible but devastating form of domestic abuse. In this powerful episode, she dives into the dynamics of coercive control, sharing insights from her PhD research and years of counselling experience. As the founder of Talking Wise and author of Tangled Web of Words, Dr. Pitman explains the red flags of this insidious abuse, highlighting how it can take over every facet of a victim's life. Paula and Dr. Pitman discuss the ten types of abusers and reveal the patterns and behaviours to look out for. Drawing from real-life stories, Paula shares the plight of her own friends affected by coercive control, including one heartening story of a friend who has finally broken free. With resources like 1800 RESPECT, this episode empowers listeners to support those caught in the web of coercive control and offers hope for those seeking a way out. It’s an unmissable conversation about resilience, education, and taking steps toward freedom.     See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    1h 3m
  8. Grant Monaghan: From SAS Sniper to Healing Veterans – The Maritime Warriors Story

    21/12/2024

    Grant Monaghan: From SAS Sniper to Healing Veterans – The Maritime Warriors Story

    Grant Monaghan went from elite SAS sniper to creating Maritime Warriors, a free program that’s saving veterans’ lives. Hear how he’s using the water to rebuild resilience and hope. Grant Monaghan’s story is one of courage, resilience, and reinvention. A Navy clearance diver turned SAS sniper, Grant has lived a life that few can imagine. From jumping out of planes at 26,000 feet with oxygen tanks to diving out of submarines, his military career included missions in East Timor, Afghanistan, and beyond. But his most impactful mission started after he left the service. In this episode of Pure Grit, Grant shares his journey from elite soldier to founder of Maritime Warriors, a free program dedicated to improving veterans’ mental health through time spent on the water. He opens up about the struggles of transitioning to civilian life, the camaraderie and healing veterans find in the ocean, and how his program turns challenges into triumphs. Grant’s passion for helping others comes alive as he talks about the transformative power of water and the hope Maritime Warriors brings to veterans and their families. With programs ranging from snorkeling and sailing to fishing and boat driving, his work proves that even the toughest battles can lead to incredible new beginnings. Whether you’re a veteran, know someone who’s served, or simply love an inspiring story, this episode is a must-listen. Support is available through Beyond Blue (1300 22 4636) or 1800VETERAN. Reach out to Grant at Maritime Warriors for a life-changing experience.   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    44 min
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4.9
out of 5
37 Ratings

About

Grit means to have courage and show strength of character, passion and perseverance. Paula’s career in radio and television is where she discovered her natural ability to interview, bringing out the best in her guest with empathy warmth and humour. Paula interviews a diverse range of guests who have made it to the top of their chosen field. They chat about the journey, obstacles and surprising moments they faced on the way to the top.

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